Joondalup’s Central Park is glowing this spring, with Bloom returning for 2026 with a new light-filled experience, Living Connections. Running nightly from 26 September to 25 October, this outdoor trail combines light, sound and storytelling for an evening out with a difference. Whether you’re planning a night with friends, a date night or an outing with the grandchildren, there’s plenty to enjoy along the way.
This year’s journey explores four natural worlds – Sky, Water, Land and Underground – with Australian animal guardians leading the story. A fairy wren, long-necked turtle, kangaroo and quenda introduce visitors to glowing landscapes and hidden environments, revealing the connections that keep the natural world alive. Connection to Country and Indigenous culture also feature in the narrative, adding meaning to the colourful displays.
Central Park’s trees and waterways provide the backdrop for holographic wildlife, lasers, immersive projections and an original soundtrack. Rather than simply moving between individual installations, you’re surrounded by changing light and sound as you follow the trail.
One of the standout sights is the giant illuminated moon suspended above the water. It makes a lovely photo opportunity, with the surrounding lights adding to the atmosphere.
Spinning lanterns cast patterns around nearby trees, while illuminated forests and water projections offer plenty of reasons to pause and take a closer look. If you’re taking photos, the organisers ask visitors to switch off their flash.
There are interactive features, too, including spotlights overlooking the lake that visitors can use to search for animal posters. These are particularly fun if you’re bringing the grandchildren, though you don’t need children in tow to appreciate the creativity of the displays.
Allow around 45 to 90 minutes to explore Bloom. Once you’ve entered, you can follow the trail at your own pace, taking time to enjoy the installations rather than rushing through. It’s worth allowing the full hour and a half if you like to stop for photographs and take in the smaller details.
For visitors considering accessibility, the organisers describe the entire trail as wheelchair accessible. The route includes both sealed and grassed paths, with some gentle slopes, so keep the mixed surfaces in mind when planning your visit. Comfortable, enclosed shoes are recommended. Accessible toilets are available at Central Park, with the original review noting that toilets are towards the end of the trail.
Companion Cards are accepted. Bring your card along with your purchased ticket, and your companion or carer can enter free of charge at the gate. Limited accessible parking is available at the P8 Central Park West Parking Station.
If you prefer a less stimulating experience, Bloom offers low sensory sessions with smaller crowds. These earlier sessions have more ambient daylight, making the light displays less intense. Check the booking schedule for available times, as session times change during the season. Some installations contain flashing lights, and the organisers advise anyone with an epileptic condition to consult their doctor before attending.
Central Park is conveniently located in the heart of Joondalup, a short, signed walk from Joondalup Train Station on the Yanchep line. With limited nearby parking, catching the train is a practical option. The event entrance is on Grand Boulevard, and visitors are asked to arrive 10 minutes before their booked session.
You could make an evening of it with dinner at one of Joondalup’s nearby restaurants, cafés or pubs before your walk. Food trucks are also available on selected nights at 70 Boas Avenue, a short stroll from Bloom, though it’s best to check the schedule rather than rely on them being there every evening.
The experience is entirely outdoors, so bring a jacket for the spring evening and check the weather before leaving home. Bloom operates in rain and wind, but severe weather may result in cancellations. Stay on the marked pathways, and if you’re visiting with grandchildren, keep them close around the park’s lake and streams.
Adult tickets for Bloom start from $17.40, with off-peak pricing available Sunday to Wednesday. Tickets must be purchased online for a timed entry session, so book ahead and check the price and session time for your chosen evening.
With its illuminated waterways, Australian wildlife and colourful woodland scenes, Bloom offers a fresh way to experience Central Park after dark. It’s an opportunity to enjoy some outdoor art, spend time together and see a familiar Joondalup setting in a different light.
Bloom takes place at Central Park, Boas Avenue, Joondalup, from 26 September to 25 October 2026. For bookings, session times and further accessibility information, visit the Bloom Joondalup website.
